Today’s soapbox: Teachers lament near poverty pay and lack of respect

[1]Two more educators have submitted their stories over at the new and enormously popular NC Policy Watch feature: “Your Soapbox[2].”

In this post, “Broken Dream,” [3]a teacher explains in stark terms how barely-above-poverty wages may force the abandonment of a lifelong dram and commitment to the profession that began as a child:

“When I started Kindergarten, it was clear to my parents that I was a born teacher. I was thrilled to be learning to read, write and do math, but was most excited to come home and show my younger brother what we did in school that day. Countless hours were spent playing “school” as I shared with my brother what I loved the most, learning. There was never a question as to what I would do. Never a hesitation, or second thought….

If something doesn’t change soon, I will leave education, my dream job, for my family. Not because I’m tired of grading, or dealing with discipline problems, or fed up with testing, observations, coverages, duties or parents. It will be because I can’t live on a teacher’s salary.”

“Low pay was not my reason for leaving. Lack of respect and not being treated like a professional were at the top of my list. I also disliked the lack of accountability for students. There was little to no consequences for poor behavior, and we were told not to retain failing students ( or even give them failing grades).”